Jan Vandemoortele


Full Name and Common Aliases


Jan Vandemoortele, a renowned Belgian development economist, is often simply referred to as Jan Vandemoortele by his peers and in academic circles.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on November 14, 1933, in Leuven, Belgium, Jan Vandemoortele passed away on March 21, 2020, at the age of 86.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Vandemoortele was a Belgian national with a distinguished career as an economist. He held various positions throughout his life, including serving as the Director-General of UNICEF from 2005 to 2010.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in post-war Belgium, Vandemoortele's early life was marked by economic uncertainty. This period would later shape his commitment to development economics and social justice. He studied at the University of Leuven, graduating with a degree in economics. His academic background laid the foundation for a career that spanned multiple continents.

Major Accomplishments


Throughout his illustrious career, Vandemoortele was involved in numerous initiatives aimed at improving global economic conditions. One of his most significant contributions was the development of the concept of "human rights-based approach" to international cooperation. This groundbreaking idea emphasizes the importance of respecting human dignity and fundamental rights in all aspects of development work.

Notable Works or Actions


Vandemoortele's commitment to social justice extended beyond theory; he actively worked on various projects that aimed at reducing poverty and improving living conditions for the world's most vulnerable populations. His tenure as Director-General of UNICEF saw significant advancements in child rights, education, and health initiatives worldwide.

Impact and Legacy


Jan Vandemoortele's impact on global development cannot be overstated. Through his tireless efforts and innovative ideas, he inspired a new generation of economists and policymakers to prioritize human well-being alongside economic growth. His legacy continues to influence development policies and practices globally.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Jan Vandemoortele's insights on the interconnectedness of social justice and economic development continue to resonate with scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike. His commitment to upholding human rights in international cooperation has left a lasting impact on global development discourse. As a result, he is widely quoted for his thought-provoking statements on how to create a more equitable world.

Note: The above biography is written in Markdown format as requested.

Quotes by Jan Vandemoortele

The incentive will be making sure the services follow the people.
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The incentive will be making sure the services follow the people.
Its objective is to support the long-term road to recovery by bringing the end of the relief operations and the start of reconstruction.
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Its objective is to support the long-term road to recovery by bringing the end of the relief operations and the start of reconstruction.
It was found to be a credible threat. Since security is priority No. 1 for me, I decided to withdraw our staff from the field.
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It was found to be a credible threat. Since security is priority No. 1 for me, I decided to withdraw our staff from the field.
A couple of months ago we feared a second wave of deaths. It has not happened but we remain vigilant.
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A couple of months ago we feared a second wave of deaths. It has not happened but we remain vigilant.
Perhaps for the first time since Oct. 8, there is a sense of cautious optimism in the humanitarian community. The job is colossal, but there is a feeling that this is a doable job. It is not mission impossible.
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Perhaps for the first time since Oct. 8, there is a sense of cautious optimism in the humanitarian community. The job is colossal, but there is a feeling that this is a doable job. It is not mission impossible.
The situation is horrific. The job is colossal. One disaster occurred Saturday that couldn't be prevented but a second disaster must be.
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The situation is horrific. The job is colossal. One disaster occurred Saturday that couldn't be prevented but a second disaster must be.
The situation remains difficult but it's not critical. The rains and snow often make it miserable but not unmanageable.
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The situation remains difficult but it's not critical. The rains and snow often make it miserable but not unmanageable.
The scarcest commodity at this time is time. Money cannot buy time, and the weather is against us and winter is closing in.
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The scarcest commodity at this time is time. Money cannot buy time, and the weather is against us and winter is closing in.
We are very worried and are being very vigilant.
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We are very worried and are being very vigilant.
The race to provide suitable shelter in time is not lost yet, but the consequences of failure, resulting from the lack of relief funds, could result in the deaths of vulnerable people.
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The race to provide suitable shelter in time is not lost yet, but the consequences of failure, resulting from the lack of relief funds, could result in the deaths of vulnerable people.
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